This article was originally written for freshu.io by Kamrin Baker. It has been given minor edits before re-posting.
After a few months of living our best college lives, us freshmen have begun to develop a status quo for ourselves - finding our way and keeping our heads above water. However, we are definitely still newbies. The learning curve still exists, and as a new semester approaches, we are reminded that we still have a lot to discover. Whether we are getting sick for the first time as the weather gets colder, taking our first midterms, enrolling in classes for the spring semester or simply still trying to make the right friends, advice remains greatly welcome.
Fresh U warmed up their direct messaging fingers and scrolled through Twitter, asked students on campus and weaseled into a couple Facebook groups to find some smart college upperclassmen with wisdom to share, and what we found was pretty universal. Freshman year is a time to embrace regret, mistakes and failure. While trying your best is step one, realizing it's not perfect is the key to the rest of the journey.
Regret #1: Not Getting Involved
Others also have this mindset, as they emerge into their college experience.
The first week of school often supplies us with free and easy-going opportunities, but as the year goes on, we have more difficulty branching out from our daily studies.
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In some instances, it takes a little time to find our passions, but if something sparks your interest, take the plunge and be a part of it.
And know you aren't the only one stressed about making friends! It takes a lot of effort, and you're doing great.
Regret #2: Getting Too Involved
I know this category kind of contradicts my first point, but everyone has a job to find their own balance between getting involved and having down time. This personal responsibility is part of what makes college so incredible.
It might take a little mindfulness and effort on your part, but self-care should be on the top of your to-do list.
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Regret #3: Being Intimidated By Others
Making connections is scary, but talking to new peers and professors really enriches your experience.
Sometimes just knowing that others have more experience than you is enough to scare you away. Remember to be humble, but know you are worth all of these potential friendships.
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A lot of us are also guilty of underestimating ourselves, simply because we are first-years. Let's change that mindset and blossom.
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Lastly, we must be aware of our surroundings. We need to work to recognize our freedom and our worth in all the mayhem of freshman year. Also...maybe know your limits when it comes to delivery food services.
So there you have it! These personal stories from upperclassmen around the country will help us to sculpt the rest of our freshman careers, but know that it is just as rewarding and constructive to make our own awkward first-year revelations.
Related: 5 Reasons Why Safe Spaces Are Important on Campus
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